PORTABLE Registrator

Portable applications have well-known advantages, these being the reason why many prefer them to desktop editions that require installation. Evidently, there is no need to go through a setup process to use them. Other than that, they can be carried around on a USB device and used on the go, which makes them more versatile and, what’s more, they do not leave traces behind on the host computer.

As you can see, the list of pluses is quite generous. On the downside, Windows does not allow you to add a portable application to the list of default apps, at least not via the available settings in the operating system. That is where Portable Registrator comes in.

What this application actually does is help you make any portable executable the default handler in Windows. Portable Registrator is itself an install-free application, thus it does not require installation. However, you do need administrative rights to run and use it, as it tampers with the Windows settings.   Launching it reveals a simple window with a few configuration options. The application is fairly easy to use, but there are a few twists to it, as detailed below.

It is worth noting that Portable Registrator creates a configuration file upon launch. This default config file only includes web browsers and mail programs as default program types. In fact, these are the two main categories that are shown in the designated drop-down list in the main window. If you want to add other default program types, such as media players, viewers or editors, then you must go on and edit the configuration file yourself. URL and file associations must also be edited in the configuration file.

While you must be careful not to mess up the configuration file and your computer’s registry with it, rest assured that you can also reset it via the main window and start fresh.

While it might seem like a bit of a hassle to configure the application on your own, using it afterwards is pretty straughtforward. You only need to select the portable executable file, choose the program type and check the file and URL associations to be correct, assign it a name to identify it easier, then hit the “Register” button. A confirmation message is shown if the operation was successful.

You should also know that any association and registration of a portable application as default can be reverted with Portable Registrator, should you wish to do so.